Massive Player Movement as NFL Teams Trim Rosters
With the deadline looming at 4 p.m. ET, the NFL's annual roster cuts are in full swing. Nearly 1,200 players are set to be out of a job by the end of the day as each of the 32 teams trims their rosters from 90 players down to the requisite 53. The frenetic activity leading up to the deadline has already seen several notable releases, trades, and contract negotiations.
Among those let go are Packers kicker Anders Carlson and Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe, with other high-profile releases including QB Will Grier (Eagles), QB Ben DiNucci (Bills), RB Matt Breida (49ers), RB Phillip Dorsett (Broncos), and RB Myles Gaskin (Vikings). Wide receiver Allen Robinson finds himself a free agent after being released by the Giants, while the Texans part ways with CB C.J. Henderson. The Jaguars have cut both CB Tre Flowers and S Terrell Edmunds, while the Bills released S Kareem Jackson. Steelers’ K Matthew Wright also joins the list of notable cuts.
Key Trades Before the Deadline
As teams finalize their rosters, trades have been equally significant. The Packers have traded quarterback Malik Willis to the Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick, and the Chiefs sent linebacker Cam Thomas to the Cardinals for a similarly valued 2025 seventh-round pick. These moves highlight the strategic maneuvers teams undertake not only to meet roster limits but also to position themselves more favorably for future drafts.
Speculation Surrounding Potential Moves
Speculation is rife regarding potential trades and releases before the clock runs out. Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick and running back Samaje Perine are both candidates for either a trade or release. In addition, Texans running back Dameon Pierce has emerged as a target for the Browns, while Chiefs wide receiver Skyy Moore might find a new home with the Commanders.
While teams are recalibrating their rosters, specific player movements have captured attention. Patriots defensive back Jonathan Jones is suggested to be on the Cowboys' radar, potentially bolstering a defensive unit that is already making strategic enhancements.
Contract Extensions and Financial Strategies
In the world of contract negotiations, the Dallas Cowboys have been busy. They secured WR CeeDee Lamb with a four-year, $136 million extension that includes a $38 million signing bonus. While this is a significant financial commitment, it also brings into focus the Cowboys' next big contract negotiations with quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive lineman Micah Parsons. It's worth noting that the Cowboys could have saved nearly $10 million had Lamb's deal been completed earlier in the offseason, highlighting the financial juggling often seen in the NFL.
Meanwhile, the Jets have made a significant investment in quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, head coach Robert Saleh is feeling the heat with a record of 18-33 over three seasons. Saleh, known for building one of the best defenses in the league, has struggled on the offensive side, making the Rodgers investment a high-stakes bet.
“Imagine if this Aaron Rodgers investment does not work out. Saleh is 18-33 as head coach of the New York Jets in his three seasons, and while he's built one of the best defenses in the entire NFL, he's handled the offensive side of things poorly,” commented Jordan Dajani.
Pressure Mounting for Coaches
The focus isn't limited to players; coaches are also feeling the pressure. Bills head coach Sean McDermott, despite his team's perennial contender status due to the talented Josh Allen, has reached the AFC Championship only once. With roster changes and a competitive AFC East, McDermott's position could be tenuous if the Bills don't perform up to expectations this season.
“We view McDermott's Buffalo Bills as perennial contenders due to the talented Josh Allen, but they've made the AFC Championship just once, and have now ditched a ton of their talent from last year. What if the Bills disappoint this year in what could be a very, very competitive AFC East? It feels like they could take a step backwards. McDermott is under pressure in 2024,” observed Dajani.
Player Injuries Impacting Teams
Injuries are also playing a significant role as teams finalize their rosters. T.J. Hockenson is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and is set to miss at least the first four games of the season. Uchenna Nwosu will be sidelined for two to six weeks due to a knee injury, adding to the challenges teams face as they enter the regular season.
Off-Field Business Ventures and Ownership Changes
Off-field business dealings are also making headlines, particularly the Kelce brothers' new deal, which secures the full rights to their "New Heights" podcast for a sum worth at least $100 million. Additionally, NFL owners are anticipated to vote in Minneapolis on the potential of allowing private equity in team ownership, a move that could significantly alter the financial landscape of the league.
In stadium news, the Commanders' home field has been renamed Northwest Stadium, further exemplifying the dynamic nature of the NFL, both on and off the field.